by Punjabi Teacher | Aug 29, 2022
While searching for a book to aid one of my students studying for the Punjabi proficiency test at the University of British Columbia, I discovered a bookstore gem. Having been a previous professor, Rajwant Singh is one of the owners with a wealth of knowledge about Punjabi literature.
A wide array of books at India Bookworld include all genres in Punjabi. Celebrating Black History Month, I was elated to see my favourite African American literary work, Roots by Alex Haley, translated into Punjabi. It’s the history of Haley’s family; enslaved Africans brought to the U.S. and subjected to savagely brutal treatment for centuries. The electrifying story begins with young Kunta Kinte, a West African from Gambia who was abducted from his village and brought as a slave to America in 1767. An epic piece of history translated into Punjabi by Daljit Singh Rakhra will touch your heart and pierce your soul. Check out the large selection of children’s Punjabi books at India Bookworld here
by Punjabi Teacher | Aug 22, 2022
I recently came across an article in the Vancouver Sun which provided a discussion of the life of second languages in BC, as well as Canada. This article was a great reminder of the many benefits of speaking more than one language, and I am so grateful to be able to speak Punjabi and share this beautiful language with you all. Through diligent study, learning a second language can be a game changer in not just an individual’s own life, but that of their relationships with others. The ability to speak to elders who may not be proficient in English and learn from their wisdom and experience, as well as the construction of unions between cultures is only viable through the knowledge of a second language. Coming together and reminding ourselves of the similarities between cultures is just what we need to make the world a better place. Join me in cementing your confidence in Punjabi by booking a lesson here
by Punjabi Teacher | Dec 7, 2017
This is a common concern amongst parents of today. How much retention of Punjabi language will the coming generations have?
My husband is solely an English speaker so I posed this question to him. Although he understands everything being said to him in Punjabi he hesitates to respond in Punjabi. He said he fears that he will say the words incorrectly and be made fun of. I asked him if he had any suggestions on ideas to help him practice. He said why don’t you start conversation classes for people like me who don’t have the confidence in speaking amongst fluent Punjabi speakers? Brilliant idea I said.
Every week we have a meet up class where people like my husband can come and practice their Punjabi language skills in a supportive environment where everyone is in the same vote.
The confidence in my husband has escalated to new levels. It is the most endearing thing when he speaks to me in his two word phrases with a thick Canadian accent – cha peeny? do you want to drink tea? bha jao sit down. chalo chalyay let go or holee bolo meaning speak slowly. Maybe this is not such a bad idea to begin with. Especially with our children.
by Punjabi Teacher | Nov 26, 2017
At one of B.C.’s most popular malls, I was standing on a descending escalator when I saw two youngsters completely engrossed in a game of tag. They were darting back and forth in front of the escalator at full speed. As I neared the bottom step, one of them shot past me almost knocking me over. The older of the two looked to be about 6 years old. He slowed down from chasing his brother and as he came closer to me, he made direct eye contact with me saying, ‘Excuse us, I’m sorry about that – my brother is only four years old and doesn’t always watch where he is going.’ I was delightfully dumbfounded! I wanted to scoop this boy up and shower him with hugs and kisses but luckily thought better of composing myself. I smiled and replied, ‘it’s quite alright, thank YOU for acknowledging me.’
It was heartwarming to see such stellar qualities in this kid. He was aware and present enough to consider someone else even amidst all the fun he was having. Pretty unusual for an adult let alone a six year old!!!! Kudos to the parents and Kudos to this amazing Kid. He made my day!
I personally believe that civility brings cohesion, harmony, strength and respect amongst societies. It is a necessary trait for every human to learn in the early years. What does your child do that makes you smile? Go on and share your proud moments and brag on!
